We're so back - 2 exciting events for you!
The Pattern Maker mixers are back and we're partnering with the one and only FashionTech cool girl Kotryna, founder of Arête.
After a mini-hiatus, excited to be back at it bringing this community together. This month we’re partnering with the FashionTech cool girl herself, Kotryan J, founder of Arete. More on her, Arete and our TPM Mixer on April 28th below.
But first I wanted to highlight her event tomorrow!
EDERA’s sunglasses look sick and scrolling through all these cute sunnies on the Arête app (see above) is the form of summer escapism I needed on this cold windy day in NYC. Event is 6-8PM at the new Arete store. I’ll be there so come join us!
The wait is over: your early access invite to THE PATTERN MAKER’s April Mixer!
Come join us on the 28th for our April The Pattern Maker mixer. OGs will know RSVPs go quick so grab your friends and get your spot ASAP.
If this is your first TPM Mixer, this is a monthly(ish) event series connecting the brightest minds in fashion, technology, and innovation.
Whether you're looking to collaborate, share insights, or simply meet like-minded professionals this is the place to be. ALSO, each month features a new co-host, bringing fresh perspectives and an expanded network to the table (more about this month’s cohost below!).
You can check out past event under my “TPM Events” tab on my substack to get a vibe of what to expect.
About this month’s co-host Kotryna Jukneviciute
This month, I’m excited to be partnering with Kotryna who is one of my OG FashionTech friends and **fun fact** the first person I hosted an event with in NYC! Along with being one of the most impressive hustlers I know in the founder game, she’s also the queen of events - this is not an exaggeration - and now with Arete’s newly opened studio, you can expect even more cool fashion brand events from her and the team (I didn’t think it was possible either folks, they’re a machine).

What is Arête?
tl;dr, if you’re looking to be on top of the trends, wearing the coolest new emerging designers, and more fashionable all around, you need the Arete app in your life. It’s your going to be your secret weapon, I promise.
Paraphrasing from Kotryna’s recent linkedin post and Arête is shaping the next decade of e-commerce by putting human connection and quality at the center of shopping and leveraging novel technology to enable global discovery.
Their iOS app is is more than a shopping app – it’s a curated fashion ecosystem. At its core, the platform is powered by cutting-edge AI designed to personalize the shopping experience. Unlike traditional e-commerce sites that flood users with thousands of products, Arête refines discovery through several key features.
AI-Driven Recommendations tailoring suggestions to the user
Shoppable Closets & Social Engagement via digital wardrobe features
Semantic & Visual Search (i.e. advanced search tools to find unique pieces from independent designers)
Direct Engagement with Designers via DM to ask about sizing, custom orders, and other details directly
Beyond technology, the platform’s heart lies in its commitment to slow fashion. Each designer on Arête is carefully vetted, ensuring ethical production methods and sustainable practices. Many brands work on a made-to-order basis, reducing waste and promoting thoughtful consumption.
Cool right??? I’m so excited for you all to meet the team and for us all to regather <3
See you tomorrow and on the 28th friends!
X,
Rachel